And boss eager not to get distracted by next season's plans
STEVE Clarke admits he plans to give some of his fringe players a chance between now and the end of the season.The Baggies boss is eager for his eighth-placed side to find the remaining six points they need in the remaining half-a-dozen games to hit the half-century.
But, with their Barclays Premier League status all-but mathematically secure for the next campaign, he is also eager to keep things fresh.
“I’m always looking to do better,” said Clarke.
“I told the players before now that I will have a little look at one or two different things.
“I don’t want to become predictable and samey.
“There will be a chance for other players between now and the end of the season.”
The Albion chief included 16-year-old Academy product Isaiah Brown on the bench for only the second time on Saturday.
But he insisted the way the game went in the 2-1 defeat by Arsenal meant there was no opportunity to hand him a top-flight debut.
“I think the type of game that evolved meant it wasn’t the type of game to bring him in,” he added.
“Don’t forget he’s not even 16 and a half yet.
“He’s a very young 16, and is just out of nappies to be honest.
“But it’s good to keep him involved.
"He trained last week and he was excellent and deserved his spot on the bench.
It’s a great experience for him and being 16 he’ll enjoy days like that.”
The Baggies boss’ preparations for next season also continue but - he insists - not at the expense of the remainder of this term.
“Next season is always in your thoughts and you’re always looking, watching games and players and thinking ‘it would be good if we could get him’,” he said.
“You are always looking at your team and seeing how and where you can improve it.
"I spend a lot of time watching over games.
“We are thinking about next season but we are not going to be distracted by it.
“It’s important we don’t forget this season is not over yet.”